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How to Diagnose ADHD in Adults For many adults, the annoyance of being afflicted with ADHD symptoms is what prompts them to seek an evaluation. They could be losing their jobs due to missing deadlines, struggling in relationships due to their impulsive behavior or having financial trouble because they forget bills or don't keep track of purchases. Ask your health care provider or a mental health professional about their experience and training in diagnosing ADHD in adults. Symptoms Find a doctor who will evaluate your symptoms if you suspect that you or your child has ADHD. The evaluation will consist of physical examination and a review of your medical history. This will include mental health issues and addiction to drugs. It is important to be open with your doctor about your symptoms and how they impact your life. Many people suffering from ADHD conceal their symptoms out of shame or for fear of being criticized. However an extensive evaluation will give your doctor a better picture of your life. Adults are different from children, which is why the diagnosis of ADHD can be more difficult than identifying ADHD in children. The American Psychological Association's Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) provides guidelines for diagnosis that are generally applicable to adults as well as children. In addition to interviewing the patient, the doctor might also ask other people who are in the patient's life- such as spouse or co-habitating partner, parents, siblings, or teachers and coaches to provide a description of the behavior of the patient and how it has affected them. This could reveal important information that isn't found in tests or checklists. In some cases the doctor may decide to investigate other conditions that may cause similar symptoms to ADHD. These conditions can include mood disorders, mental health conditions and physical injuries or illnesses such as concussions or head trauma. They will also look at the person's personal and work life to determine if the symptoms interfere with their daily activities. The signs of adult ADHD vary from mild to moderate with moderate symptoms leading to difficulties in work and social situations. Severe symptoms may interfere with the performance of your work or school and can cause tension in relationships, making it difficult to live independently. ADHD can be a problem for anyone, but it is more frequent in men and boys than in girls. It is unclear why this is the case however it is likely that there are genetic and environmental factors in play. Certain foods and chemicals have been proven to trigger ADHD in certain individuals. It is also possible that some people are predisposed because of brain structures that process stimuli. Diagnosis It is not always simple to recognize ADHD. Many people are embarrassed by their symptoms and find it difficult to talk to an expert in mental health or health care professional. This can make the evaluation process more time-consuming. It is important to talk candidly and honestly about your symptoms and your previous medical history to ensure a thorough evaluation. During the evaluation the doctor will use standardized behavioral rating scales and ADHD symptom checklists to determine whether you meet the criteria to be diagnosed of ADHD. Your doctor will ask you about your family and childhood history, and a detailed description your home and work. Your doctor could also recommend a physical exam to determine the cause of your symptoms, for example, seizures or thyroid issues. A physical exam usually includes blood work and a head scan which can reveal any chemical or structural issues within the brain that may be contributing to your ADHD symptoms. A physical can also help identify other conditions that can cause similar symptoms, like depression or substance abuse. Your doctor may suggest taking part in an investigation into the effectiveness of new treatments for ADHD in adults. These trials are conducted by research centers like NIMH. However, it is important to be aware that these research studies can have risks and may not result in a solution that is suitable for you. It is also crucial to inform your doctor any other medications you're taking, since they could interact with some stimulants used to treat adult ADHD. The effectiveness of stimulants can be affected by medications that affect sleep, appetite and blood pressure. The NIMH's Medication Interactions webpage can provide more details on how to discuss other medications with your doctor. Treatment Adults suffering from ADHD can be treated with medications, behavioral therapy and educational support. Often, it's the combination of these that can help people find success in school, work and other pursuits. Referrals from primary care providers or other health professionals are often the first step to treatment. Check out the professional's qualifications and experience working with adults with ADHD. If a professional is unwilling or in a position to provide this information, you should find a different one. The process of diagnosing adult ADHD typically involves interviews with parents, teachers and other people who are significant to the child. It could also include a complete medical and family history, as well as psychotherapy evaluation. It is crucial that the person being evaluated for ADHD be honest and not hide to avoid embarrassment. There must be a variety of symptoms in two or more settings and have a significant impact in the person's life for an ADHD diagnosis to be made. Untreated ADHD can lead to the development of comorbid disorders, such as anxiety and depression. This is particularly true for those with ADHD who have a history of chronic stress or frustration. Frustration can lead to a self-fulfilling prophecy of underachievement and can lead to feelings of low self-esteem and a poor performance. A diagnosis of ADHD could be a source of relief for some adults. They can start to understand their own situation and realize that it wasn't entirely their responsibility for not being able to build a career or meet new friends. For some adults, the diagnosis of ADHD can trigger feelings of sadness and regret over missed opportunities. Adults with ADHD should always be ready to discuss their concerns openly with supervisors, coworkers and teachers. Consider joining an ADHD support group where people who suffer from the condition can share their experiences and receive guidance. Also, those who have an diagnosis of ADHD should verify their health insurance coverage to determine the services covered and to find the names and numbers of professionals who specialize in treating adults suffering from ADHD. Support A person who is diagnosed with ADHD is able to receive assistance for the symptoms and issues that affect them in a variety of situations, including at work, home at school or in relationships, and many others. Adult ADHD is typically treated with medication and psychotherapy. Some people may find that they also require specific coaching, which may help them with structure and support in daily life. Adults diagnosed with ADHD are often relieved to know that their problems aren't due to bad parenting or lazyness. For certain people, being diagnosed with ADHD is the first step towards receiving the help they require to live better lives. It is much easier to identify ADHD in children, but it isn't impossible for adults to have this disorder. Many adults are suffering from undiagnosed ADHD. A psychiatrist with experience in this condition can diagnose ADHD in adults by conducting a diagnostic interview. The interviewer can inquire about the patient's social and emotional history, as well as their family history. Certain doctors employ brain scans or computer programs to assess patients. Most experts agree that an extensive interview is the best method to diagnose ADHD. Depending on the nature and severity of the person's difficulties and the co-existing conditions like mood disorders, anxiety and learning disabilities that commonly accompany ADHD, additional psychological and neuropsychological tests may be administered to determine the effect and severity of these conditions. adhd diagnose ADHD Diagnosis of these tests can also help in determining the proper dosage of medications for a particular person. It is also a good idea to ask your friends and colleagues for recommendations to professionals who are experienced in diagnosing ADHD. Then check their professional qualifications, including academic degrees and the number of years they've been practicing. They should be able explain their diagnostic procedure and answer any questions you may have. You can also look for experts who are qualified on the internet or through the phone book. Ask them about their method of therapy and what advice they would give you.